Darn, I was going to suggest a particular Fender that I saw in a local used shop - a Squier! But this was an early 80's version from Japan that ranks up there in quality with the American versions. These were made under the Squier name for distribution overseas. The American versions still had the Fender moniker. This one had the sweetest neck ever and was in dang good condition. $249 but I bet I could get it for less!

This was a Squier Jazz - sort of an unusual find since mostly you see the Precisions - in white. Good frets, nothing too bad about the finish - not mint - just worn with nicks and dings, pretty light, neck was very straight, nickel tuners.

I just can't lay out the cash for anything new right now or I'd be on this quick!